There are moments when we can become so focused on rules, traditions and appearances that we forget the very heart of our faith: love.
Today’s Gospel reminds us that Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. When the disciples were hungry and picked grain to eat, some people were more concerned about regulations than about human need. Jesus challenged that attitude, showing us that God’s commandments are never meant to crush the human person. They are meant to lead us towards God and towards one another.
Our faith is not simply about knowing what is permitted and what is forbidden. It is about becoming people whose hearts resemble the heart of Christ.
Saint Paul, in the first reading, also warns us against pride. “What do you have that you did not receive?” Everything we possess is ultimately a gift. Our talents, opportunities, successes, families and even our faith are blessings from God. Therefore, there is no room for boasting or looking down on others.
This is particularly challenging in a world where people are often measured by wealth, position, influence and popularity. Christianity invites us to measure greatness differently.
Saint Teresa of Calcutta understood this beautifully. She did not change the whole world through political power or material wealth. She simply allowed God’s love to reach people who were suffering. Her life reminds us that holiness often begins with one small act of love.
Today, let us ask ourselves: Have I become more concerned with being right than with being loving? Have I allowed pride to make me forget that everything I have is a gift?
May Christ teach us to have a faith that does not merely speak, but serves; a faith that does not condemn quickly, but understands; a faith that does not seek applause, but quietly loves.
Lord Jesus, soften my heart. Teach me to place love above pride, mercy above judgment and service above recognition. May my life become a living testimony of Your love. Amen.
About The Author
